By Samantha Simmons, MS Summer in North Carolina is all about making memories. It's afternoons spent splashing in the pool, weekends at the lake, family beach trips, and backyard gatherings with friends. As temperatures climb and more people head outdoors, it's also the perfect time to remember that a little preparation can go a long way toward keeping everyone safe. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is encouraging residents to make safety part of their...

By Samantha Simmons At Burke County Public Schools, students’ safety and well-being guide every decision. That commitment was evident during a recent Parent Night at Patton High School, where district leaders and public health partners came together to share resources, information, and practical ways families can support their children. The evening began with a presentation by Burke County Public Schools highlighting the systems and supports in place to support students. District leaders...

By Samantha Simmons, MS So, What Exactly Is Public Health? Every April, communities across the country celebrate National Public Health Week (NPHW), a time to recognize the people, programs, and systems that quietly keep our families, neighbors, and communities healthy. Here in Burke County, April 6–12, 2026, gives us a perfect excuse to pause and think about what public health really means. Unlike a visit to your doctor, which focuses on treating individual health issues, public health is...